Use of Force
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Officers are often forced to make split-second decisions about the amount of force that reasonably appears necessary in a particular situation, with limited information and in circumstances that are tense, uncertain and rapidly evolving.
The collection and distribution of use of force data is important for transparency purposes as well as to provide a mechanism to assess any deficiencies in training or procedures. Officers rely heavily on their training and experience to resolve situations without having to resort to use of force. As the statistics show, this is often very successful. Lt. Schulz and Lt. Lenss are the primary supervisors responsible for oversight of the use of force review. An examination of each of these incidents takes place within one month of their occurrence. Other department administrators, department DAAT and tactical instructors were consulted for clarification or guidance on certain matters in their area of expertise if needed.
Use of Force Rates
| Year | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 |
| Calls for Service | 11,685 | 11,512 | 11,245 | 13,047 |
| UOF Incidents | 58 | 70 | 63 | 90 |
| Rate | .50% | .61% | .56% | .69% |
In April of 2020 we also began documenting in the state database “Badger TraCS” any use of force that involved discharging a firearm, officer involved death or causing great bodily harm.
Please find a copy of our Use of Force Policy here.
